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About the region

Many of the water systems in the northern region are connected through infrastructure (such as Goulburn Weir and the Waranga Western Channel), which allows water to be physically delivered from the Goulburn River to the Loddon and Campaspe systems. Water trading also enables transfers of allocation between systems. Within the limitations of each mechanism, water for the environment can be moved between systems for delivery to environmental sites across northern Victoria, although most water for the environment is used to provide benefits in the systems in which the water is held.

Environmental values, recent conditions, objectives and planned actions for each system in the northern region are presented in the system sections that follow.


Seasonal Outlook 2023/24

Rainfall across most of northern Victoria in 2022-23 was very much above the long-term average, and record-breaking rainfall in spring caused severe flooding in the Murray, Goulburn, Campaspe, Loddon and Avoca rivers. All major water storages filled and spilled, and large areas of floodplain, including remnant river red gum and black box forests, were inundated. Flooding in the Mallee region was prolonged by inflows from the Murrumbidgee and lower Darling rivers. While this is the third consecutive year of generally wet conditions in northern Victoria, it’s the first of the three with widespread natural floodplain connection.

Widespread floodplain inundation can be devastating for riverside communities. It is an infrequent, natural event that benefits a broad range of native plants and animals, including river red gum and black box trees, aquatic (wetland) plants, waterbugs, frogs, turtles, native fish and waterbirds. The environment’s ‘boom’ response is essential for long-term environmental health, but unfortunately, pest animals (such as European carp) also benefit from these conditions, which highlights the importance of integrated catchment management to address environmental threats. The large spring floods also triggered low oxygen levels in waterways, including Boosey/lower Broken Creek and the Loddon and Murray rivers, which caused fish deaths. The water quality was less affected in the Ovens, Goulburn and Campaspe rivers, and these systems potentially provided refuges for some fish.

Summer and autumn 2023 were close to or slightly drier than the long-term average for northern Victoria, and river flows, excluding that of the lower Murray, returned to typical in-channel low flow rates. Inter-valley transfers from the Goulburn system were relatively small for the second consecutive year, which meant the summer and autumn flows in the Goulburn and Campaspe rivers were largely in line with environmental flow targets.

Water for the environment was managed in line with a wet planning scenario across northern Victoria in 2022-23. Natural flows met or exceeded the planned watering actions for most systems in winter, spring and early summer, but water for the environment was used in waterways, including the Goulburn River and lower Broken Creek, to provide local refuges of better-quality water during blackwater events. Water for the environment was also used to deliver autumn pulses in the Broken, Campaspe and Loddon rivers to improve water quality and support native fish.

As of late-May 2023, the Bureau of Meteorology predicted drier, warmer-than-average conditions across northern Victoria for winter and spring 2023. The allocation outlook provided by the Northern Victorian Resource Manager in May 2023 indicated all systems would reach 100 percent high-reliability allocation in 2023-24 under the dry-to-wet planning scenarios. The Campaspe system holds sufficient water to allocate 100 percent at the beginning of July. In average-to-wet conditions, allocations are expected to reach 100 percent by mid-August in the Goulburn/Loddon and Murray systems and by mid-October in the Broken system.

In an extremely dry planning scenario, allocations in the larger Goulburn/Loddon and Murray systems are forecast to reach 80 percent or more, while the smaller Broken and Bullarook systems are likely to receive 15 percent and zero allocation, respectively. The risk of spill estimate by the Northern Victorian Resource Manager in May 2023 indicated the spill risk to be greater than 90 percent in the Murray and Goulburn systems and above 60 percent in the Campaspe system. Combined with high and early 2023-24 allocations, carryover into 2023-24 is therefore, less critical to meet winter and early spring forecast demands.

Environmental watering actions across northern Victoria in 2023-24 have been planned to consolidate and, where possible, build on the environmental gains of the natural flooding in 2022. The forecast water availability is expected to be sufficient to support the planned watering actions in all planning scenarios.

All the wetlands that can receive water for the environment filled in spring 2022, and many need either relatively small top-ups to maintain target levels during 2023-24 or will be allowed to draw down naturally to support important dry-phase ecological processes. Some wetlands and floodplain complexes, including Gunbower Forest, will be deliberately inundated again in 2023-24 to ensure there is sufficient habitat and food across the landscape to support the large number of juvenile waterbirds that hatched and fledged after last year’s floods.

In rivers the focus will be on delivering a low flow and freshes to support native fish, which had mixed outcomes in 2022-23. The floods increased the available food resources and triggered some likely successful breeding in spring 2022, although these outcomes were partially offset by low oxygen levels in some waterways resulting in fish deaths and a large carp-breeding event. Maintaining water quality and fish habitat and encouraging native fish dispersal and migration are key objectives for 2023-24. Bank and in-channel vegetation will also be a focus, especially where post-flood recovery has been slow (such as the lower section of the riverbank along the lower Goulburn River). Under drier planning scenarios, significant deliveries of operational water from Hume Dam or the Goulburn inter-valley trade account may reduce the use of environmental water, potentially making re-use return flows less able to meet Murray demands and environmental flows to South Australia. Wetter conditions may result in spills from relatively full storages, which may cause more high river flows and floodplain inundation.

Traditional Owners in the northern region

Traditional Owners and their Nations in the northern region have a deep connection to Country that has endured for tens of thousands of years. This includes inherent rights and cultural obligations to Country and community.

The Traditional Owner groups in and around northern Victoria include Barapa Barapa, Bangerang, Dja Dja Wurrung, Duduroa, Dhudhuroa, Latji Latji, Ngintait, Nyeri Nyeri, Taungurung, Tati Tati, Wadi Wadi, Wamba Wemba, Waywurru, Weki Weki, Yorta Yorta and Yaithmathang. The Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (trading as Djaara), First People of the Millewa-Mallee Aboriginal Corporation (representing Latji Latji and Ngintait), Taungurung Land and Waters Council and Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation are Registered Aboriginal Parties under the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.

Several formal agreements are in place with Traditional Owners in the northern region.

In 2013, Djaara entered into a recognition and settlement agreement under the Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 in Victoria. In 2020, the Victorian Government and the Taungurung Land and Waters Council Aboriginal Corporation entered a recognition and settlement agreement (signed in 2018) under the Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010.

In 2004, the Victorian Government entered into a cooperative management agreement with the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation to improve collaboration in the management of Yorta Yorta Country, including Barmah State Forest and reserves along the Goulburn River. In 2010, the Traditional Owner Land Management Agreement under the Conservation, Forests and Lands Act 1987 over Barmah National Park was signed, enabling the Yorta Yorta Traditional Owner Land Management Board to jointly manage Barmah National Park. In 2020, the Joint Management Plan for Barmah National Park, prepared by the Yorta Yorta Traditional Owner Land Management Board, was publicly released. The plan guides the strategic management of Barmah National Park to 2030.

The Victorian Government is committed to self-determination for Traditional Owners through Treaty negotiations and policies such as Water is Life: Traditional Owner Access to Water Roadmap 2022. The VEWH and partners are working with Traditional Owners to embed the outcomes of government policy into the Victorian environmental watering program. Program partners in the environmental watering program are aware that structural changes to how water is managed (such as legislative, policy and/or governance changes) may be made in the future in recognition of Aboriginal water rights. Program partners have heard that Traditional Owners want empowerment and agency in water management, and in many cases, they want to manage water on Country on their own terms.

Black Swamp

Last water release

Sep-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

65 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

80 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Glenelg River

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

9,992.75 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

10322.138 ML

Watering 2020-21

8571.67 ML

Watering 2021-22

9800 ML

Watering 2022-23

11470.722 ML

Upper Jacksons Creek

Last water release

Jun-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

314.5 ML

Watering 2022-23

321.9 ML

Tarago River

Last water release

Mar-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Volume authorised includes all water available under the entitlement, subject to allocation. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

40 ML

Watering 2020-21

1334 ML

Watering 2021-22

951 ML

Watering 2022-23

151 ML

Pyrites Creek

Last water release

Dec-23

Released to date 2023-24

435.10 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Volume authorised includes all water available under the entitlement, subject to allocation. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

178.4 ML

Watering 2020-21

560.8 ML

Watering 2021-22

1470.1 ML

Watering 2022-23

940 ML

Werribee River

Last water release

Apr-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Volume authorised includes all water available under the entitlement, subject to allocation. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

990 ML

Watering 2020-21

1325.67 ML

Watering 2021-22

792 ML

Watering 2022-23

1024 ML

Bungalally Creek

Last water release

Apr-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Upper Burnt Creek

Last water release

Nov-23

Released to date 2023-24

311.77 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Volume authorised is shared between Wimmera and MacKenzie rivers and Burnt, Bungalally and Mount William creeks and the Ranch Billabong. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

424.63 ML

Watering 2020-21

719.704 ML

Watering 2021-22

109.4 ML

Watering 2022-23

21.325 ML

Lower Mount William Creek

Last water release

Jun-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Volume authorised is shared between Wimmera and MacKenzie rivers and Burnt, Bungalally and Mount William creeks and the Ranch Billabong. The water released in 2023-24 is made available by VEWH and CEWH. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1137.088 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

2508.693481 ML

MacKenzie River

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

1,399.29 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Volume authorised is shared between Wimmera and MacKenzie rivers and Burnt, Bungalally and Mount William creeks and the Ranch Billabong. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

2178.259 ML

Watering 2020-21

1612.865 ML

Watering 2021-22

2885.4 ML

Watering 2022-23

3840.222 ML

Ranch Billabong

Last water release

Dec-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Volume authorised is shared between Wimmera and MacKenzie rivers and Burnt, Bungalally and Mount William creeks and the Ranch Billabong. Flows to the Wimmera River may be delivered from Lake Londsale or Taylors Lake Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

11.7 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

6 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Upper Mount William Creek

Last water release

Nov-23

Released to date 2023-24

80.00 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Volume authorised is shared between Wimmera and MacKenzie rivers and Burnt, Bungalally and Mount William creeks and the Ranch Billabong. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

139 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

135 ML

Watering 2022-23

68 ML

Wimmera River

Last water release

Dec-23

Released to date 2023-24

2,556.60 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Volume authorised is shared between Wimmera and MacKenzie rivers and Burnt, Bungalally and Mount William creeks and the Ranch Billabong. Flows to the Wimmera River may be delivered from Lake Londsale or Taylors Lake. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

7691.5 ML

Watering 2020-21

3955.43 ML

Watering 2021-22

7117.1 ML

Watering 2022-23

2455.202 ML

Barbers Swamp

Last water release

Oct-23

Released to date 2023-24

1.13 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

10.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

7.632 ML

Watering 2020-21

5.656 ML

Watering 2021-22

3.9 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Broom Tank

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

2.02 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

2.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

1.1 ML

Watering 2021-22

1 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Bull Swamp (Bulls Swamp)

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

3.35 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

8.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

4.1 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

2.89 ML

Carapugna

Last water release

Oct-23

Released to date 2023-24

7.85 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

22.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

10.285 ML

Watering 2020-21

18.883 ML

Watering 2021-22

12.936 ML

Watering 2022-23

5.36475 ML

Challambra Swamp

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

1.98 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

4.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1.896 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

4.651 ML

Watering 2022-23

1.86 ML

Chiprick (both)

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

6.68 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

9.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

5.15 ML

Chirrup Swamp

Last water release

Oct-23

Released to date 2023-24

0.42

Water authorised 2023-24

9.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1.249 ML

Watering 2020-21

1.4 ML

Watering 2021-22

0.375

Watering 2022-23

0.923

Clinton Shire Dam

Last water release

Oct-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0.483

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

2.6 ML

Watering 2022-23

1.653 ML

Cokum Bushland Reserve

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

3.64 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

8.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

2.474 ML

Watering 2020-21

2 ML

Watering 2021-22

3.455 ML

Watering 2022-23

5.1 ML

Considines

Last water release

Dec-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

3.783 ML

Watering 2020-21

3.9 ML

Watering 2021-22

4.198 ML

Watering 2022-23

6.896 ML

Corack Lake

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

0.00

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

4.238 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

3.396 ML

Watering 2022-23

4.112 ML

Coundons Wetland

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

0.35

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0.529

Watering 2020-21

0.737

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

1.10758 ML

Creswick Swamp

Last water release

Oct-23

Released to date 2023-24

1.20 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

3.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1.106 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

2.667 ML

Watering 2022-23

0.965

Cronomby Tanks

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

6.95 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

8.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

4 ML

Watering 2021-22

6.136 ML

Watering 2022-23

5.9072 ML

Crow Swamp

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

4.59 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

9.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

4.995 ML

Watering 2020-21

9.302 ML

Watering 2021-22

5.138 ML

Watering 2022-23

4.1371 ML

D Smith Wetland

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

1.05 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0.8

Watering 2021-22

0.69

Watering 2022-23

0.66

Davis Dam

Last water release

Jul-23

Released to date 2023-24

1.15 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

4.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0.83

Watering 2020-21

1.3 ML

Watering 2021-22

1.07 ML

Watering 2022-23

0.845

Falla Dam

Last water release

Oct-23

Released to date 2023-24

0.45

Water authorised 2023-24

4.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

2 ML

Watering 2021-22

1.806 ML

Watering 2022-23

3.29172 ML

Fieldings Dam

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

0.75

Water authorised 2023-24

2.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1.408 ML

Watering 2020-21

1.6 ML

Watering 2021-22

1.081 ML

Watering 2022-23

0.975

Goulds Reserve

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

0.04

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

1.954 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

3.481 ML

Greens Wetland (2)

Last water release

Jun-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

2.1 ML

Watering 2021-22

1.368 ML

Watering 2022-23

0.74

Harcoans Swamp

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

2.47 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

7.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

10.069 ML

Watering 2020-21

8.2 ML

Watering 2021-22

4.656 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Homelea

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0.834

Watering 2020-21

0.78

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

1.081 ML

J Ferrier Wetland

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

6.99 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

7.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

1.706 ML

Watering 2021-22

2.292 ML

Watering 2022-23

3.546 ML

Jeffcott Wildlife Reserve

Last water release

Oct-23

Released to date 2023-24

0.83

Water authorised 2023-24

5.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

2.84 ML

Watering 2020-21

1.13 ML

Watering 2021-22

3.379 ML

Watering 2022-23

1.03877 ML

Jesse Swamp

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

6.124 ML

Watering 2020-21

5.2 ML

Watering 2021-22

2.956 ML

Watering 2022-23

1.24384 ML

John Ampt

Last water release

May-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

2.123 ML

Watering 2022-23

2.8401 ML

Kath Smith Dam

Last water release

Oct-23

Released to date 2023-24

0.70

Water authorised 2023-24

2.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0.608

Watering 2020-21

0.746

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Krong Swamp

Last water release

Aug-18

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Lake Danaher Bushland Reserve

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

2.90 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

3.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

5.96978 ML

Mahoods Corner

Last water release

Nov-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0.851

Watering 2020-21

2.03 ML

Watering 2021-22

1.185 ML

Watering 2022-23

0.76226

Morton Plains Reserve

Last water release

Oct-23

Released to date 2023-24

2.54 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

5.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

1.405 ML

Watering 2021-22

1.61 ML

Watering 2022-23

1.516 ML

Mutton Swamp

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

0.02

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

9.504 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

4.291 ML

Watering 2022-23

2.04 ML

Newer Swamp (Round Swamp)

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

2.284 ML

Opies Dam

Last water release

May-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0.69

Watering 2020-21

0.7

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0.728

Pam Juergens Dam

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0.416

Watering 2020-21

0.4

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0.855

Part of Gap Reserve (Stephen Smith Dam)

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

1.819 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

1.43 ML

Paul Barclay

Last water release

May-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

5.323 ML

Watering 2020-21

4.095 ML

Watering 2021-22

2.986 ML

Watering 2022-23

3.323 ML

Pinedale

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

2.41 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

4.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1.831 ML

Watering 2020-21

2.584 ML

Watering 2021-22

1.718 ML

Watering 2022-23

0.87295

Poyner

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

1.197 ML

Watering 2021-22

0.972

Watering 2022-23

2.179 ML

R Ferriers Dam

Last water release

Nov-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

3.7 ML

Watering 2021-22

6.334 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Rickard Glenys Dam

Last water release

Oct-23

Released to date 2023-24

1.76 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1.818 ML

Watering 2020-21

1.619 ML

Watering 2021-22

0.328

Watering 2022-23

0

Roselyn Wetland/ Reids Dam

Last water release

Oct-23

Released to date 2023-24

10.52 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

10.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

3.743 ML

Watering 2021-22

2.865 ML

Watering 2022-23

4.83 ML

Sawpit Swamp

Last water release

Sep-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

10.6 ML

Watering 2021-22

9.029 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Schultz/Koschitzke

Last water release

Oct-23

Released to date 2023-24

0.48

Water authorised 2023-24

5.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

2.785203 ML

Watering 2022-23

1.25 ML

Shannons Wayside

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

1.461 ML

Tarkedia Dam

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

1.67 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

4.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

2.145 ML

Watering 2020-21

1.864 ML

Watering 2021-22

1.252 ML

Watering 2022-23

2.323 ML

Tchum Lakes Lake Reserve (North Lake - Wetland)

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

81.39 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

80.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Tchum Lakes Swimming Pool (North Lake - Dam)

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

3.635 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

9.977 ML

Towma (Lake Marlbed)

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0.678

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

1.202 ML

Uttiwillock Wetland

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

8.31 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

8.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

Watering 2020-21

4.8 ML

Watering 2021-22

4.6 ML

Watering 2022-23

3.65061 ML

Wal Wal Swamp

Last water release

May-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

4.894 ML

Watering 2021-22

2.172 ML

Watering 2022-23

3.015 ML

Kinnairds Wetland

Last water release

Sep-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

258.6 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

195 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Moodie Swamp

Last water release

Dec-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

1006.2 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Doctors Swamp

Last water release

Apr-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

67 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

427 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Gaynor Swamp

Last water release

Apr-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

993.2 ML

Watering 2021-22

901.1 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Horseshoe Lagoon

Last water release

Aug-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

121 ML

Watering 2020-21

17.1 ML

Watering 2021-22

51.9 ML

Watering 2022-23

70.3 ML

Kanyapella basin

Last water release

Oct-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

500 ML

Watering 2021-22

1000 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Loch Garry

Last water release

Nov-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

499.8 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

980 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Reedy Swamp

Last water release

Dec-19

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

499.833 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Black Swamp

Last water release

Sep-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

73,200.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. *Volume authorised is the total made availble for the Gunbower Forest floodplain, floodrunners and wetlands, including Yarran Creek.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

142.5 ML

Watering 2021-22

1462.6 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Gunbower Creek

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

5,834.38 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

21,000.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. The water released in 2023-24 was made available by the VEWH and the CEWH.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

21231.2 ML

Watering 2020-21

10330.578 ML

Watering 2021-22

10149.408 ML

Watering 2022-23

9868.501 ML

Gunbower Forest

Last water release

Oct-23

Released to date 2023-24

18,468.90 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

73,200.00 ML

More Information

Includes water delivered via Hipwell Road regulator which then passes through the forest floodplain to fill smaller wetlands. Watering can also be delivered via other regulators to target smaller wetlands in the forest and volumes delivered via those is reported seperately. The total volume authorised is availble for the Gunbower Forest floodplain, floodrunners and wetlands, including Yarran Creek. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. The water released in 2023-24 was made available by the VEWH and the Living Murray program.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

2946.127 ML

Watering 2022-23

45036.6 ML

Little Gunbower Creek Complex

Last water release

Jun-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

73,200.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. *Volume authorised is the total made availble for the Gunbower Forest floodplain, floodrunners and wetlands, including Yarran Creek. *The water released in 2023-24 was made available by the VEWH, the Living Murray and the CEWH.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1119.9 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

3207.9 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Little Reedy Wetland Complex

Last water release

Feb-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

73,200.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. *Volume authorised is the total made availble for the Gunbower Forest floodplain, floodrunners and wetlands, including Yarran Creek. *The water released in 2023-24 was made available by the VEWH, the Living Murray and the CEWH.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1878 ML

Watering 2020-21

1505.78 ML

Watering 2021-22

9166.943 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Reedy Lagoon

Last water release

Jun-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

73,200.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. *Volume authorised is the total made availble for the Gunbower Forest floodplain, floodrunners and wetlands, including Yarran Creek. *The water released in 2023-24 was made available by the VEWH, the Living Murray and the CEWH.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

921.8 ML

Watering 2021-22

2604 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Yarran Creek

Last water release

Nov-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

73,200.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. *Volume authorised is the total made availble for the Gunbower Forest floodplain, floodrunners and wetlands, including Yarran Creek. *The water released in 2023-24 was made available by the VEWH, the Living Murray and the CEWH.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1413 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

1125 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Barmah Forest

Last water release

Dec-23

Released to date 2023-24

208,440.90 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

654,500.00 ML

More Information

Environmental water delivered from NSW holdings is not included in the total volumes. Watering data is updated monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. The water released in 2023-24 was made available by VEWH, CEWH, the Living Murray Program and River Murray Increased Flows.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

282118.1 ML

Watering 2020-21

204515.9 ML

Watering 2021-22

205312.5 ML

Watering 2022-23

102250.8 ML

Boals Deadwood

Last water release

Feb-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

8164.8 ML

Watering 2021-22

5603.056 ML

Watering 2022-23

723.1 ML

Guttrum Forest

Last water release

Dec-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

498.2 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

654.3 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Hird Swamp

Last water release

Feb-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

2901 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Johnson Swamp

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

3240.4 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

1500 ML

Watering 2022-23

1148 ML

Kunat Kunat (Round Lake)

Last water release

Nov-23

Released to date 2023-24

144.20 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

700.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

300 ML

Watering 2020-21

369.937 ML

Watering 2021-22

409.4 ML

Watering 2022-23

250.1 ML

Lake Cullen

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

6385 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

5000 ML

Lake Elizabeth

Last water release

Nov-23

Released to date 2023-24

283.70 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

1,200.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

960 ML

Watering 2020-21

713.5 ML

Watering 2021-22

824 ML

Watering 2022-23

645.5 ML

Lake Murphy

Last water release

Apr-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

3306.2 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

McDonalds Swamp

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

293 ML

Watering 2020-21

280 ML

Watering 2021-22

350 ML

Watering 2022-23

401.7 ML

Muringa wetlands

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

26.7 ML

Watering 2022-23

3.3 ML

Richardsons Lagoon

Last water release

Nov-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

1461.2 ML

Watering 2021-22

1392.3 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

River Murray system

Last water release

Jan-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Environmental water delivered from NSW holdings is not included in the total volumes. Watering data is updated quartery based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

Watering 2021-22

17576 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Third Reedy Lake

Last water release

Mar-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

3760 ML

Watering 2020-21

1415 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Wirra-Lo wetland complex

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

245.1 ML

Watering 2020-21

96.8 ML

Watering 2021-22

110.8 ML

Watering 2022-23

28.5 ML

Lower Broken Creek

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

40,837.35 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

50,000.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. The water released in 2022-23 was made available by VEWH, CEWH and the Living Murray program.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

247 ML

Watering 2020-21

33654.514 ML

Watering 2021-22

69915.4 ML

Watering 2022-23

47427.9 ML

Goulburn River

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

223,150.19 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. The water released in 2022-23 was made available by VEWH, CEWH and the Living Murray program

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

3533 ML

Watering 2020-21

238819.065 ML

Watering 2021-22

468756.716 ML

Watering 2022-23

220945.5 ML

Dowd Morass

Last water release

Water delivered 2020 and 2021

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Use of holdings in Dowd Morass is based on river height in the Latrobe River, not volumetric entitlement

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Heart Morass

Last water release

Water delivered 2020 and 2021

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Use of holdings in Heart Morass is based on river height in the Latrobe River, not volumetric entitlement

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Latrobe River

Last water release

Apr-20

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Volume authorised includes all water available under the entitlement, subject to allocation. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

2701.7 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Sale Common

Last water release

Water delivered 2020 and 2021

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Use of holdings in Sale Common is based on river height in the Latrobe River, not volumetric entitlement

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Macalister River

Last water release

Mar-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Volume authorised includes all water available under the entitlement, subject to allocation. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

18333.025 ML

Watering 2020-21

3611 ML

Watering 2021-22

390 ML

Watering 2022-23

12460.9 ML

Snowy River

Last water release

Apr-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

The water year in the Snowy system runs from May to April. NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment manages environmental water in the Snowy River.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

117871 ML

Watering 2020-21

91176 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Heyfield wetlands

Last water release

Oct-19

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Volume authorised is available under the volume authorised for the Thomson River Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

12 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Thomson River

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

9,552.00 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

Full Entitlement

More Information

Volume authorised includes all water available under the entitlement, subject to allocation. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

12910 ML

Watering 2020-21

18651 ML

Watering 2021-22

18960 ML

Watering 2022-23

18160 ML

Broken River

Last water release

Jun-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

6,000.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. The water released in 2023-24 was made available by VEWH and CEWH. The volume authorised in 2023-24 may be used in the Broken River and upper Broken Creek

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

Watering 2021-22

509.6 ML

Watering 2022-23

2501.9 ML

Upper Broken Creek

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

789.79 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

6,000.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. The water released in 2023-24 was made available by VEWH and CEWH.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

597.3 ML

Watering 2020-21

1235.1 ML

Watering 2021-22

1247.4 ML

Watering 2022-23

1146 ML

Crankhandle

Last water release

Nov-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

400.2 ML

Watering 2021-22

800 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Finnigans Creek

Last water release

Dec-20

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

950.238 ML

Watering 2020-21

999.94 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Hattah Lakes

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. Water authorised in 2023-24 is to be used for pump maintenance and testing.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

145 ML

Watering 2020-21

27312.72 ML

Watering 2021-22

46138.705 ML

Watering 2022-23

29311.8 ML

Lake Kramen

Last water release

Nov-19

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

12701.67 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Lake Wallawalla

Last water release

Sep-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

3993.06 ML

Watering 2021-22

10005.5 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Lindsay and Mulcra islands

Last water release

Jun-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Includes deliveries to anabranch waterways and wetlands within Lindsay and Mulcra islands. Watering is coordinated with operation of weir pools 7 and 8 of the Murray River.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

387 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Lindsay-Mullaroo connector

Last water release

June-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

292.7 ML

Watering 2021-22

208.9 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Sandy Creek

Last water release

Dec-20

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1311.914 ML

Watering 2020-21

1999.558 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Scotties Billabong

Last water release

Nov-20

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

100.4 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Wallpolla East

Last water release

Dec-20

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1383.233 ML

Watering 2020-21

1487 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Wallpolla Horseshoe

Last water release

May-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

399.677 ML

Watering 2020-21

399.213 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Wetland 33

Last water release

Nov-20

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

149.3 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Birchs Creek

Last water release

Water delivered 2014-15

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Volume authorised includes all water available under the entitlement, subject to allocation. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Lake Boort

Last water release

Sep-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

770 ML

Watering 2022-23

1912.9 ML

Lake Leaghur

Last water release

Jun-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

804.606 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Lake Meran

Last water release

Apr-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1611.7 ML

Watering 2020-21

1353.4 ML

Watering 2021-22

7713.6 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Lake Yando

Last water release

Mar-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

1010.5 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Little Lake Meran

Last water release

Dec-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

883.5 ML

Loddon River

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

12,624.40 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

Full entitlement

More Information

Volume authorised includes all water available under the entitlement, subject to allocation. The water released in 2023-24 was made available by VEWH and CEWH. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

8096.1 ML

Watering 2020-21

15392.9 ML

Watering 2021-22

13792.8 ML

Watering 2022-23

10837.67 ML

Pyramid Creek

Last water release

Nov-23

Released to date 2023-24

12.00 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

6,000.00 ML

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

122.7 ML

Watering 2020-21

619.5 ML

Watering 2021-22

968.1 ML

Watering 2022-23

64.9 ML

Serpentine Creek

Last water release

Feb-24

Released to date 2023-24

583.80 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

Full Entitlement

More Information

Volume authorised includes all water available under the entitlement, subject to allocation. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1345.7 ML

Watering 2020-21

1238.3 ML

Watering 2021-22

954 ML

Watering 2022-23

716.9 ML

Bidgee Lagoons

Last water release

Dec-20

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

450.005 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Brickworks Billabong

Last water release

Mar-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

320 ML

Watering 2020-21

248.324 ML

Watering 2021-22

198.7 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Bridge Creek

Last water release

Nov-19

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

776.075 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Bullock Swamp

Last water release

Water delivered 2014-15

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Burra Creek North

Last water release

May-19

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Burra Creek South

Last water release

Apr-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

941.7 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Burra Creek South Proper

Last water release

Apr-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

70.1 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Cardross Lakes

Last water release

Nov-17

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Carina Bend

Last water release

Oct-19

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

877.84 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Catfish Billabong

Last water release

Jun-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

877.43 ML

Cowanna Billabong

Last water release

Water delivered 2015-16

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Heywoods Lake

Last water release

Jun-17

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

J1 Creek

Last water release

Nov-17

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

Watering 2021-22

Watering 2022-23

0

Koorlong Lake

Last water release

Jun-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

147.848 ML

Watering 2020-21

62.341 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Lake Carpul

Last water release

Water delivered 2015-16

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Lake Hawthorn

Last water release

Feb-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

1460.19 ML

Watering 2020-21

859.873 ML

Watering 2021-22

177.2 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Lake Powell

Last water release

Water delivered 2015-16

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Liparoo East

Last water release

Nov-19

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

392.421 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Liparoo West

Last water release

Oct-19

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

271.5 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Little Heywood Lake

Last water release

Nov-17

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Margooya floodplain wetland

Last water release

Dec-20

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

15 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Neds Corner Central

Last water release

Nov-19

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

148.58 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Neds Corner East

Last water release

Oct-19

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

98.119 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Neds Corner Woolshed

Last water release

Dec-20

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

21 ML

Watering 2020-21

52.7 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Nyah Floodplain

Last water release

Nov-18

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Robertson Creek

Last water release

Nov-21

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

999.7 ML

Watering 2021-22

723.2 ML

Watering 2022-23

0

Robertson wetland

Last water release

Watered in 2013-14

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Vinifera Floodplain

Last water release

May-19

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Yungera Wetland

Last water release

Nov-18

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Annulus Billabong

Last water release

Oct-22

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Volume authorised is available under the volume authorised for the Yarra River Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

46 ML

Watering 2021-22

28 ML

Watering 2022-23

23 ML

Banyule Billabong

Last water release

Oct-19

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Volume authorised is available under the volume authorised for the Yarra River Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

51 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Burke Road Billabong

Last water release

Nov-18

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Volume authorised is available under the volume authorised for the Yarra River Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Willsmere Billabong

Last water release

Nov-18

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Volume authorised is available under the volume authorised for the Yarra River Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

0

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Yarra River

Last water release

May-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Volume authorised includes all water available under the entitlement, subject to allocation. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

3931 ML

Watering 2020-21

8453 ML

Watering 2021-22

26917 ML

Watering 2022-23

6942 ML

Yering Backswamp

Last water release

Sep-23

Released to date 2023-24

17.00 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

Full entitlement

More Information

Volume authorised is available under the volume authorised for the Yarra River Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

18 ML

Watering 2020-21

6 ML

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

43 ML

Hospital Swamps

Last water release

Water delivered in 2023-24

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Use of holdings in Hospital Swamp is based on river height in the Barwon River, not volumetric entitlement. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

Water delivered

Watering 2020-21

Water delivered

Watering 2021-22

Water delivered

Watering 2022-23

0

Reedy Lake

Last water release

Water delivered in 2023-24

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Use of holdings in Reedy Lake is based on river height in the Barwon River, not volumetric entitlement. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

Water delivered

Watering 2020-21

Water delivered

Watering 2021-22

Water delivered

Watering 2022-23

0

Upper Barwon River

Last water release

Mar-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Volume authorised includes all water available under the entitlement, subject to inflows. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

901 ML

Watering 2020-21

888.4 ML

Watering 2021-22

849.2 ML

Watering 2022-23

535.8 ML

Campaspe River

Last water release

Nov-23

Released to date 2023-24

17,618.15 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

Full entitlement

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change. The water released in 2023-24 was made available by VEWH and the Living Murray program.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

20438.3 ML

Watering 2020-21

25024.8 ML

Watering 2021-22

34420 ML

Watering 2022-23

13856.3 ML

Coliban River

Last water release

Apr-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

-

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

Watering 2020-21

Watering 2021-22

213.8 ML

Watering 2022-23

215.9 ML

Moorabool River

Last water release

Dec-23

Released to date 2023-24

67.00 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

Full entitlement

More Information

Volume authorised includes all water available under the entitlement, subject to inflows. Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

3587 ML

Watering 2020-21

2295 ML

Watering 2021-22

2563 ML

Watering 2022-23

2500 ML

King River

Last water release

Apr-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

50 ML

Watering 2020-21

86 ML

Watering 2021-22

142 ML

Watering 2022-23

142 ML

Mullinmur Wetland

Last water release

Feb-20

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

20 ML

Watering 2020-21

0

Watering 2021-22

0

Watering 2022-23

0

Ovens River

Last water release

Mar-23

Released to date 2023-24

-

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

Watering data is updated bi-monthly based on available operational data and is subject to change.

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

53 ML

Watering 2020-21

73 ML

Watering 2021-22

73 ML

Watering 2022-23

73 ML

Last water release

Released to date 2023-24

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

Watering 2020-21

Watering 2021-22

Watering 2022-23

Last water release

Released to date 2023-24

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

Watering 2020-21

Watering 2021-22

Watering 2022-23

Last water release

Released to date 2023-24

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

Watering 2020-21

Watering 2021-22

Watering 2022-23

Last water release

Released to date 2023-24

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

Watering 2020-21

Watering 2021-22

Watering 2022-23

Last water release

Total Check

Released to date 2023-24

553,365.84 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

Watering 2020-21

Watering 2021-22

Watering 2022-23

Last water release

552,976.71

Released to date 2023-24

389.13 ML

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

Watering 2020-21

Watering 2021-22

Watering 2022-23

Last water release

Released to date 2023-24

Water authorised 2023-24

More Information

* Subject to environment and climatic conditions and operational constraints

Watering 2019-20

Watering 2020-21

Watering 2021-22

Watering 2022-23

Engagement

The environmental watering program is informed by engagement with Traditional Owners, stakeholders and local communities. Program partners undertake extensive engagement at the local level to understand community priorities for the delivery of water for the environment for the coming year.

Program partners also seek to understand how cultural, social, economic and recreational values, uses and objectives may be supported by delivering environmental flows. Opportunities to support these values, uses and objectives are incorporated into watering decisions where possible, and provided they do not compromise environmental outcomes. Cultural, social, economic and recreational values considered for each system in the northern region are presented in the following system sections.

Engagement through other strategies, plans and processes also informs environmental flows objectives. These include regional catchment strategies, regional waterway strategies and technical studies (such as environmental flows studies and environmental water management plans). Traditional Owner cultural objectives for environmental water may refer to cultural flow studies, Aboriginal Waterway Assessments, Traditional Owner Country Plans, Water Resource Plans and other tools to influence environmental water planning. These strategies, plans and technical reports collectively describe a range of environmental, economic, social and Traditional Owner perspectives and longer-term integrated catchment and waterway management objectives that influence environmental flows and priorities for water for the environment.

Table 5.1.1 Partners and stakeholders engaged by Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority in developing seasonal watering proposals for the Barmah Forest, Goulburn River, Goulburn wetlands and Broken wetlands, Broken River and upper Broken Creek and lower Broken Creek systems and other key foundation documents that have directly informed the proposals (grouped in alphabetical order)

Partner/stakeholder Barmah Forest Goulburn system Goulburn wetlands Broken wetlands Broken River and upper Broken Creek Lower Broken Creek

Community groups and environment groups

  • Goulburn Broken Wetland Advisory Group members
  • Goulburn Valley Environment Group
  • Goulburn Murray Landcare Network
  • Goulburn Valley Environment Group
  • Turtles Australia
  • Goulburn Murray Landcare Network
  • Goulburn Valley Environment Group
  • Turtles Australia
    • Goulburn Valley Environment Group
    • Goulburn Valley Environment Group
    • Broken Boosey Conservation Management Network
    • Broken Creek Field Naturalists Club
    • Goulburn Murray Landcare Network

    Government agencies

    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Moira Shire Council
    • Parks Victoria
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Murray-Darling Basin Authority
    • Parks Victoria
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Greater Shepparton City Council
    • Parks Victoria
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Greater Shepparton City Council
    • Moira Shire Council
    • Parks Victoria
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Parks Victoria
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Moira Shire Council
    • Parks Victoria
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder

    Landholders/farmers

    • None in Victoria (NSW consults with Bullatale Creek landholders)
    • Goulburn Environmental Water Advisory Group
    • Landowners who adjoin wetlands that receive water for the environment and/or use the delivery channel
    • Landowners who adjoin wetlands that receive water for the environment and/or use the delivery channel
    • Individual landholders who are on the Broken Environmental Water Advisory Group
    • Individual landholders who are on the Broken Environmental Water Advisory Group

    Local businesses

     
    • Local ecotourism operator
    • Trellys Fishing and Hunting
    • Trellys Fishing and Hunting
    • Trellys Fishing and Hunting
      

    Recreational users

    • Goulburn Broken Wetland Advisory Group members
     
    • Field & Game Australia
    • Local fishing clubs
    • Field & Game Australia
    • Individual community members on the Broken Environmental Water Advisory Group
    • Local fishing clubs
    • Individual community members on the Broken Environmental Water Advisory Group
    • Individual community members on the Broken Environmental Water Advisory Group
    • Nathalia Angling Club
    • Numurkah Fishing Club
    Technical experts  
    • Goulburn to Murray Trade Review Scientific Advisory Panel
    • Scientific leads from the CEWO Monitoring, Evaluation and Research Program – Goulburn River
    • Arthur Rylah Institute
    • Rakali Consulting
    • Water’s Edge Consulting
    • Arthur Rylah Institute
    • Rakali Consulting
    • Water’s Edge Consulting
      
    Traditional Owners
    • Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation
    • Taungurung Land and Waters Council
    • Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation
    • Taungurung Land and Waters Council
    • Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation
    • Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation
    • Taungurung Land and Waters Council
    • Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation
    • Taungurung Land and Waters Council
    • Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation

    Table 5.1.2 Partners and stakeholders engaged by Mallee Catchment Management Authority in developing seasonal watering proposals for the Hattah Lakes, Lower Murray wetlands and Lindsay, Mulcra and Wallpolla islands systems and other key foundation documents that have directly informed the proposals (grouped in alphabetical order)

    Partner/stakeholder Hattah Lakes Lower Murray wetlands Lindsay, Mulcra and Wallpolla islands

    Community groups and environment groups

    • Mallee CMA Land and Water Advisory Committee
    • OzFish Unlimited
    • Wider community
    • Mallee CMA Land and Water Advisory Committee
    • Millewa-Carwarp Landcare Group
    • OzFish Unlimited
    • Red Cliffs Landcare Group
    • Wider community
    • Yelta Landcare Group
    • Mallee CMA Land and Water Advisory Committee
    • Millewa-Carwarp Landcare Group
    • OzFish Unlimited
    • Wider community
    • Yelta Landcare Group

    Government agencies

    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Lower Murray Water
    • Victorian Murray Floodplain Restoration Project Team
    • Mildura Rural City Council
    • Murray-Darling Basin Authority
    • Parks Victoria
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
    • Lower Murray Water
    • Mildura Rural City Council
    • NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment
    • Parks Victoria
    • Swan Hill Rural City Council
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Victorian Murray Floodplain Restoration Project Team
    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
    • Lower Murray Water - Victorian Murray Floodplain Restoration Project Team
    • Mildura Rural City Council
    • Murray-Darling Basin Authority
    • NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment
    • Parks Victoria
    • SA Water
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    Landholders/farmers
    • Landholders and farmers who live around the Hattah Lakes
    • Robertson Wetland property owner
     

    Local businesses

    • Hattah Lakes Store
    • Mallee Tours
    • Mildura Visitor Information and Booking Centre
    • Murray Offroad Adventures
    • Victorian Apiarists’ Association (Sunraysia branch)
    • Visit Mildura
    • Wildside Outdoors
    • Mallee Tours
    • Mildura Visitor Information and Booking Centre
    • Murray Offroad Adventures
    • Victorian Apiarists’ Association (Sunraysia branch)
    • Visit Mildura
    • Wildside Outdoors
    • Lake Cullulleraine Store
    • Mallee Tours
    • Mildura Visitor Information and Booking Centre
    • Murray Offroad Adventures
    • Victorian Apiarists’ Association (Sunraysia branch)
    • Visit Mildura
    • Wildside Outdoors

    Recreational users

    • BirdLife Mildura
    • Mildura 4WD Club
    • Sunraysia Bushwalkers Inc.
    • BirdLife Mildura
    • Cabarita Community Inc.
    • Friends of Merbein Common
    • Mid-Murray Field Naturalists
    • Mildura 4WD Club
    • Sunraysia Bushwalkers Inc.
    This code will create an unordered list with six list items, representing the mentioned organizations or clubs. Each item is displayed on a new line with a bullet point.
    • BirdLife Mildura
    • Mildura 4WD Club
    • Sunraysia Bushwalkers Inc.

    Traditional Owners

    • See the 'Traditional Owner cultural values and uses' section
    • See the ‘Traditional Owner cultural values and uses’ section
    • First People of the Millewa-Mallee Aboriginal Corporation
    • Local Aboriginal community

    Table 5.1.3 Partners and stakeholders engaged by North Central Catchment Management Authority in developing seasonal watering proposals for the Gunbower Creek and Forest, central Murray wetlands and Boort wetlands, Campaspe River, Coliban River, Loddon River, Birchs Creek and Guttrum Forest systems and other key foundation documents that have directly informed the proposals (grouped in alphabetical order)

    Partner/Stakeholder Gunbower Creek and Forest Central Murray Wetlands Campaspe system Coliban River Loddon system (including Boort wetlands) Birchs Creek Guttrum Forest

    Community groups and environment groups

     
    • Birdlife Australia
    • Turtles Australia
    • Ashbourne Landcare
    • Echuca Moama Landcare Group
    • Landcare groups
    • Strathallan Family Landcare
    • Malmsbury and District Landcare Group
    • Birdlife Australia
    • Turtles Australia
    • Tullaroop Catchment Restoration Project
    • Birdlife Australia
    • Turtles Australia

    Government agencies

    • Campaspe Shire Council
    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
    • Forestry Corporation of NSW
    • Forestry NSW
    • Gannawarra Shire Council
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Murray-Darling Basin Authority
    • Parks Victoria
    • VicForests
    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Parks Victoria
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Coliban Water
    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Parks Victoria
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Parks Victoria
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Department of Energy, Environment and Climate
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Parks Victoria
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder

    Landholders/ farmers

    • Dairy farmers, irrigators and local residents including via the Enhancing Northern Waterways Advisory Group
    • Individual landholders and community members
    • Individual landholders and community members including via the Campaspe Environmental Water Advisory Group
    • Coliban Water’s Rural Advisory Group
    • Individual landholders and community members
    • Individual landholders and community members including via the Loddon Environmental Water Advisory Group
    • Individual landholders and community member
    • Individual landholders and community members

    Recreational users

    • Field & Game Australia
    • Field & Game Australia
    • Field & Game Australia
    • Local canoe clubs
    • VRFish
    • VRFish
    • Boort Angling Club
    • Field & Game Australia
    • VRFish
    • Field & Game Australia

    Technical experts

    >
    • Environmental chemists
    • Vegetation, fish and bird ecologists
     
    • Arthur Rylah Institute
        

    Traditional Owners

    • Barapa Barapa Traditional Owners
    • Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation
    • Barapa Barapa Traditional Owners
    • Wamba Wemba Traditional Owners
    • Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation
    • Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation
    • Taungurung Land and Waters Council
    • Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation
    • Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation
    • Barapa Barapa Traditional Owners
    • Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation’s Kapa Gatjin (water advisory) Group
    • Wamba Wemba Traditional Owners
    • Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation’s Kapa Gatjin (water advisory) Group
    • Barapa Barapa Traditional Owners
    • Wamba Wemba Traditional Owners
    • Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation

    Table 5.1.4 Partners and stakeholders engaged by North East Catchment Management Authority in developing the seasonal watering proposal for the Ovens system and other key foundation documents that have directly informed the proposal (grouped in alphabetical order)

    Partner/Stakeholder Ovens system

    Community groups and environment groups

    • Mullinmur Management Committee
    • Wangaratta Landcare and Sustainability Incorporated

    Government agencies

    • Commonwealth Environmental Water Office
    • Goulburn-Murray Water
    • Rural City of Wangaratta
    • Victorian Environmental Water Holder
    • Victorian Fisheries Authority

    Landholders/farmers

    • Borinya Community Partnership School
    • Galen Catholic College
    • A private landholder on the King River

    Technical experts

    • Arthur Rylah Institute

    Traditional Owners

    • Non-RAP groups
    • Taungurung Land and Waters Council
    • Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation

    Integrated catchment management

    Altered water regimes are one of many threats to the health of Victoria’s waterways. Environmental flows need to be part of an integrated approach to catchment management to be effective. Many of the environmental objectives of water for the environment in the northern region will not be fully met without simultaneously addressing issues such as barriers to fish movement, high nutrient loads, loss of streambank vegetation, bank erosion, and invasive species.

    Victorian and Australian government agencies, Traditional Owner groups, community groups, and private landholders collectively implement a wide range of programs that aim to protect and improve the environmental condition and function of land, soils, and waterways throughout Victoria’s catchments.

    The following are examples of complementary programs that support environmental flow outcomes in the northern region.

    A strategic action plan to protect floodplain marshes in Barmah Forest is being implemented. The plan identifies management actions to address key threats to the delicate floodplain vegetation. Specific actions include removing feral horses and other invasive animals and controlling invasive plants. Parks Victoria and the Yorta Yorta Nations jointly manage Barmah National Park.

    Implementation of the native fish recovery plan for the North Central CMA region continues to progress, with the construction of a fishway on Taylors Creek Weir, just north of Ghow (Kow) Swamp. The fishway is another important element of a fish ‘superhighway’, which will allow native fish to migrate up and down rivers in the region, supporting diverse and healthy populations. This follows on from other recent projects, including the construction of fishways at Koondrook and Cohuna weirs in Gunbower Creek in 2021 and fish screens installed in Gunbower Creek to reduce the number of native fish lost to irrigation channels.

    An additional 270 km of native fish habitat and refuge was opened up to native fish in the Ovens River with the construction of the Tea Garden Weir fishway in April 2023.

    Multiple approaches, including planting native aquatic plants and reintroducing woody habitat (such as snags) in lower Broken Creek, are helping accelerate the recovery of in-stream vegetation, which provides shelter and foraging habitat for native fish, platypus, and other aquatic animals. The creek may also be restocked with native fish following the November 2022 blackwater fish death event.

    For more information about integrated catchment management programs in the northern region, see the Goulburn Broken, Mallee, North Central, and North East CMAs’ regional catchment strategies and regional waterway strategies.

    Risk management

    During the development of the seasonal watering proposals for the northern region systems, environmental watering program partners assessed risks associated with potential environmental flows for 2023-24 and identified appropriate mitigating strategies. Risks and mitigating actions are continually assessed by program partners throughout the year (see subsection 1.2.7).

    Northern Victoria and the southern Murray-Darling Basin

    Rivers, creeks and floodplains in northern Victoria form part of the southern connected Murray-Darling Basin. Water flows directly from the Victorian rivers and floodplains into the Murray River, which means that environmental flows delivered in northern Victorian systems can achieve ecological objectives at multiple sites throughout the Murray-Darling Basin. For example, water for the environment delivered in the Goulburn River flows into the Murray River and can be managed to ensure it flows all the way to the Lower Lakes and Coorong in South Australia, providing environmental outcomes at Gunbower Forest, Hattah Lakes, Lindsay Island and the Chowilla floodplain along the way

    What is the Basin Plan 2012?

    Northern Victoria is a part of the Murray-Darling Basin, and deliveries of water for the environment in the northern region are subject to the requirements of the Basin Plan 2012, also known as the Murray-Darling Basin Plan or just the Basin Plan.

    The Murray-Darling Basin Authority developed the Basin Plan under the Commonwealth Water Act 2007, and it became law in November 2012. The Basin Plan sets legal limits on the amount of water that can be taken from the Murray-Darling Basin’s surface and groundwater resources. Chapter 8 of the Basin Plan sets out a high-level environmental watering plan, which defines environmental objectives to protect, restore, and build the resilience of water-dependent ecosystems and their associated functions. The VEWH’s environmental planning and delivery are consistent with the requirements of the Basin Plan. The potential environmental flows outlined in sections 4 and 5 of this seasonal watering plan fulfill Victoria’s obligations to identify annual priorities for the delivery of water for the environment for Victoria’s water resource areas under section 8.26 of the Basin Plan 2012.

    What is River Murray Increased Flows (RMIF)?

    River Murray Increased Flows (RMIF) is water for the environment that has been recovered as part of the Snowy Water Initiative, established in 2002 to address environmental impacts associated with the operation of the Snowy Mountains Scheme. RMIF is stored in Snowy Hydro Limited’s storages and released to maintain and improve environmental values in the Murray River. RMIF becomes available when:

    • Snowy Hydro Limited releases more than its nominated annual release volume as part of its power-generation operations, and/or
    • managers of water for the environment request additional RMIF be made available when volumes in Murray River storages exceed specified limits.

    The call for and use of RMIF are coordinated by the Southern Connected Basin Environmental Watering Committee, and they must be authorized by the VEWH and NSW Department of Planning and Environment.

    What is River Murray Unregulated Flows (RMUF)?

    River Murray Unregulated Flows (RMUF) is the remaining unregulated water in the Murray system once Victoria and New South Wales have exercised their rights to use unregulated flows. Unregulated flow events are formally declared by the Murray-Darling Basin Authority when there is more water in the river than is needed to meet demands or can be captured in storage at the time. The use of RMUF is coordinated by the Southern Connected Basin Environmental Watering Committee for environmental outcomes.

    Planning

    The Basin Plan 2012 and the Basin-wide environmental watering strategy (second edition, 2019) guide the long-term planning of water for the environment in the Murray-Darling Basin. Under the Basin Plan, environmental objectives are met by achieving outcomes for connectivity, native vegetation, waterbirds and native fish.

    Objectives and outcomes under the Basin Plan reflect local site- and state-based objectives, though site-based objectives are often broader in scope and cover additional values (such as frogs, turtles, waterbugs and physical processes like sediment movement). Watering actions that support Basin Plan outcomes have significant benefits for many other species that rely on the surrounding landscape (such as squirrel gliders living along the lower Campaspe River or flocks of regent parrots moving into the Hattah Lakes floodplain after watering).

    The VEWH coordinates its activities with other environmental water holders in northern Victoria, NSW and South Australia to achieve environmental outcomes at the southern connected Murray-Darling Basin scale. Collaborative planning focuses on how upstream and downstream objectives align and how the broader operation of the Murray River system can help support environmental outcomes. The Murray Lower Darling River Indigenous Nations Statement on environmental water use (available at www.vewh.vic.gov.au) is important for understanding Traditional Owner objectives and desired outcomes.

    Annual planning is documented in basin annual environmental watering priorities (by the Murray-Darling Basin Authority under the Basin Plan), in annual portfolio management plans (by the Commonwealth Environmental Water Office) and in the VEWH’s annual seasonal watering plan (this document). The Southern Connected Basin Environmental Watering Committee publishes its annual operational scenarios for environmental flow coordination in the Murray River. In Victoria, all water for the environment must be delivered in line with the VEWH’s seasonal watering plan, meaning coordination during annual planning is fundamental to successful basin-scale outcomes.

    Delivery coordination and monitoring

    Environmental water holders in the Murray-Darling Basin are increasingly emphasising the coordination of water deliveries to achieve landscape-scale environmental outcomes. Examples include:

    • delivering a winter fresh in the Goulburn River, which subsequently passed through to the Lower Lakes in South Australia and through the barrages to the Coorong to trigger upstream migration of fish (such as lamprey)
    • delivering a spring flow from Hume Dam to support floodplain sites (such as Barmah-Millewa Forest) and the river channel from the mid-Murray to the lower Murray all the way to the Lower Lakes and Coorong in South Australia. This event carries carbon and nutrients from the floodplain to the river and transports them through the system, increasing food availability, helping native fish to move and breed and supporting native aquatic plants in the river channel.

    To assess the effectiveness of landscape-scale responses to environmental flows, the Southern Connected Basin Environmental Watering Committee developed the River Murray Channel Monitoring Plan 2021-22 to 2025-26. The plan focuses on productivity and fish indicators to inform the management of environmental flows. This monitoring complements site-based monitoring programs across the Murray system.

    Partnerships and collaboration

    The VEWH holds Victorian environmental entitlements for water recovered under interstate projects and agreements – Living Murray and RMIF entitlements – and these require coordinated decision-making about where they are used. The primary objective of Living Murray entitlements is to support Murray icon sites, which include the Barmah Forest, Gunbower Forest, Hattah Lakes and the Lindsay-Mulcra-Wallpolla islands in Victoria. RMIF also supports environmental objectives along the Murray system in Victoria, NSW and South Australia. The Southern Connected Basin Environmental Watering Committee recommends how the Living Murray allocation, RMIF and RMUF should be coordinated and used.

    The VEWH partners with the Commonwealth Environmental Water Office to optimise the benefits of water for the environment held by the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder (CEWH) and delivered in Victoria. Delivery of the Living Murray’s and the Commonwealth’s environmental Water Holdings to meet Victorian environmental flow objectives is included in relevant system sections in the following pages of this plan.

    Water for the environment delivered through northern Victorian waterways can often be re-used to achieve further environmental benefits downstream. If return flows are not re-used at Victorian environmental sites, VEWH, the Living Murray and CEWH return flows continue to flow across the border to South Australia, where they will be used to provide environmental benefits along the Murray River and in the Coorong, Lower Lakes and Murray Mouth icon sites.

    The VEWH may order, or authorise waterway managers to order, Living Murray and Commonwealth water for the environment for environmental outcomes at downstream (non-Victorian) sites. The VEWH may also order water for delivery in the Murray system to non-Victorian sites under river operating rules that help improve environmental outcomes while maintaining the reliability of entitlements for all water users. In previous years, this has included deliveries to the Murray from the lower Darling, orders for delivery from Lake Victoria and orders for delivery to the Murray River.

    Murray Lower Darling River Indigenous Nations

    Environmental water holders consider the objectives and cultural values of First Nations in the Murray-Darling Basin, and they seek to support these values where possible. The health of the Murray-Darling Basin benefits from meaningful partnerships with Traditional Owners, and their involvement in water planning, coordination and delivery from the local to the basin scale is a priority for environmental water holders.

    In April 2021, a forum on Latji Latji Country in Mildura brought together Traditional Owner representatives from many parts of the southern Murray-Darling Basin to share information about the health of Country and discuss preferred outcomes from the management of environmental flows. Participants developed a statement on the use of water for the environment, and in April 2022, a Murray Lower Darling Rivers Indigenous Nations gathering started to refresh the statement for 2022-23.

    The statement will be used to guide environmental flow planning for the 2022-23 water year, particularly through the Southern Connected Basin Environmental Watering Committee. The committee will work hand-in-hand with existing, site-based First Nations planning and delivery of water for the environment along the Murray. There is more information about this in the Traditional Owner cultural values and uses explanations in the following system sections.

    Murray Lower Darling River Indigenous Nations Statement on environmental water use in 2022–23

    First Nations from many parts of the Southern Connected Basin gather regularly in solidarity to share information between Nations about the health of Country and discuss our water objectives and inherent rights.

    This includes our desired outcomes from the management of environmental water on our Countries. In 2021 we agreed to contribute a collective statement about environmental water use. Our statement is a living document. It will grow and adapt overtime as the social, political, and climate pressures facing our people and Countries evolve.

    We first gathered in April 2021, on Latji Latji Country in Mildura, and subsequently online in November 2021 and again on Ngunnawal Country in Canberra in April 2022.

    We want water holders, managers and decision makers to hear these key messages:

    Respect water, Country and lore

    First Nations are endeavouring to guide and collaborate with Government agencies to improve river health. But the inherent risks of the settler – colonial water management systems, that have been imposed on our Countries, must be addressed. The current water regime in the Murray-Darling Basin ignores the principles and knowledges that underpin our practices of caring for Country.

    Water can never be ‘owned’. Water and rivers have life and spirit which cannot be bought and sold. All ‘ownership’ of water in this Country is based on the dispossession of First Nations and imposition of colonial legal frameworks. We have never ceded our inherent rights as guardians and caretakers of rivers and waters including our groundwaters. First Nations lore provides a holistic, interconnected management system, where all elements contribute to the good of the whole.

    We want to collaborate, but we do not accept or endorse the legal and management frameworks that have been imposed on our rivers and groundwaters. We ask our partners to respect our water spirits, knowledge and lore.

    Address our concerns

    We have major concerns about the legal, policy and governance settings that dictate how our rivers flow and how we get a voice. These include:

    • Overallocation of water and water allocation decisions which do not leave enough in our rivers or groundwaters to sustain their survival or meet our cultural needs
    • Over reliance on damaging infrastructure to regulate and replicate complex natural systems, with little real benefit to our Countries
    • Short term decision making that doesn’t properly account for a changing climate
    • Limited commitment to and resourcing for First Nations participation and empowerment
    • Decision making that excludes First Nations’ rights and interests
    • Commodification and trading of water that disregards the limitations of natural systems
    • Water theft and illegal extraction
    • Inequitable access to water and poor distribution of the social and economic benefits it can bring

    The settler-colonial water framework has generated perverse outcomes which we contend with on a daily basis. The mindset of water management needs to change. Reform of Federal, State and Territory legislation and policy is a must in pursuance of First Nations principles for a sustainable interconnected Murray Darling Basin system.

    Recognise that our rivers are at risk

    We see examples where environmental water is helping to heal Country, but the overall policy and legal settings mean our waterways and cultural values are at risk.

    Our biodiversity is suffering. We are struggling to save remnants of our ecologically and culturally significant landscapes. We are being asked to prioritise some places, while we watch others decline or die. We are grappling with this reality.

    Infrastructure, including dams, weirs, regulators and pumps, is segmenting our waterways and damaging our Country with little real benefit. There is too much regulation of the floodplain and huge investment in infrastructure without proper engagement with our people.

    Fluctuating river levels and unseasonably high flows, driven by consumptive demand, are degrading our waterways and cultural values. Land use is driving unsustainable water demands and limited channel capacity means we can’t get water to where we need it when it is needed.

    Water holes are silting up. Bank erosion and slumping is causing huge impacts on cultural heritage.

    Poor water quality, algal blooms and salinity are being compounded by the disruption of natural systems that flush and clean our rivers and wetlands. Waterways, creeks and wetlands are being left to dry out, exposing cultural sites and degrading cultural values.

    The health of significant trees and medicinal plants is declining because of lack of water, impacting on our cultural sustainability, health and wellbeing. Culturally significant birds and animal species are not seen where they used to be. There are not enough native fish in the system.

    Delivering water to our wetlands and billabongs through artificial systems can mean delivering the wrong water for Country. Legal and infrastructure constraints restrict us from being able to direct water to where we need it.

    Help us protect and grow the things that are important to us.

    We are passionate about working together to protect and sustain our waterways.

    We need the agency and life force of the river to be respected. We want to see more water going out onto Country and filling all our creeks and billabongs. We want water holders and managers to work with us, looking at the whole system and how to restore it to what it was, with adequate flows and proper timing. We want overbank flows to support total system health.

    We want increased recovery of water for the environment, not decreased.

    We want to see the Murray Mouth open and salt being flushed from the system.

    We want the lakes, billabongs, creeks, wetlands and rivers that are important to us to get the water they need to thrive. We want to see dry and degraded wetlands restored to life with culturally informed watering to protect our cultural, spiritual and heritage values.

    We want regular re-connecting flows from floodplains and billabongs, allowing the life in our natural nurseries to restock and replenish the river. We need adequate, sustained flows through our rivers to keep them connected and mitigate variation from irrigation demand.

    We want healthy water to flow into, around and through our Country to all mobs downstream. We want the nutrition and healthy water from upstream to replenish Country. We want to build back biodiversity and Traditional Owner management to improve water quality. We want to collaborate with all mobs to ensure a healthy system, renewing cultural connections between Nations.

    We need to exercise self-determination over the development and operation of infrastructure on Country. We want to be empowered to use our natural and cultural infrastructure, billabongs, fish traps and breeding structures, to slow down flows and recharge the landscape.

    We need adequate healthy water for improved tree health and thriving floodplain forests with Red gum, Black box and Yellow box.

    We need flows to replenish the floodplain and support our important cultural plants like Old man weed, grasses and sedges, Nardoo, Cumbungie and milfoil. We want to see water birds, ducks, swans and Brolgas, returning and thriving in our wetlands.

    We need connectivity and good water quality to support native fish including Black bream, Congolli, crayfish, mussels, small bodied fish, shrimp, Shield shrimp, yabbies, Yellow belly, Murray cod, catfish, Black fish, Murray hardyhead and Trout cod. We want turtles, Platypus, frogs and all the other animals that rely on water to be able to return to Country.

    We want co-management of all environmental water. We want to be empowered to make the decisions about how environmental water is used. Prioritisation and water planning should be driven from the ground up, by First Nations. Give us control and we will show you how to heal Country and, in doing so, we will maintain intergenerational transfer of knowledge.

    We want water managers to listen deeply to what Traditional Owners and Elders have to say and to help us access your science to back our objectives (not the other way round).

    We need policy changes, transparency and reviews of the existing entitlement system. We need to review and amend the Basin Plan to reflect our knowledge, science and human rights. We need Traditional Owners involved in the highest level of all Government agencies and we need our own agencies and statutory bodies.

    Sufficient and recurrent resourcing is a necessity for First Nations to undertake First Nations led risk assessments on agencies and their practices, as well as monitoring outcomes of any environmental watering undertaken within the Murray Darling Basin.

    Stories

    Stories of success and reflections on past environmental watering activities and results

    Page last updated: 24/07/21